CBI to file new case in coal allocation scam

CBI is likely to file a fresh case soon on the alleged irregularities in the allocation of coal mines for captive use even as the issue of its probe in the scam faces criticism from various quarters.
CBI sources remained tight lipped about the companies and persons which could be made accused in the new FIR as it would compromise its search operations which would follow the filing of the case.
The sources said the new case could be registered within a couple of days depending on clearance received from senior officials.
With the registration of the new case, the total number of FIRs registered in the coal allocation case would go up to 11.

The agency had earlier booked some companies for alleged cheating, forgery and misrepresentation of facts in their applications for coal blocks.
Last year, the Central Vigilance Commission had entrusted CBI to probe into a complaint filed by by BJP leader Prakash Javadekar with regards to alleged irregularities in the allotment of coal mines for captive use.

Following the complaint, MPs of Congress also filed complaints into coal block allocation during NDA tenure.
Based on these complaints, CBI had registered three preliminary enquiries-- to probe alleged irregularities in coal block allocation to private companies between 2006 and 2009, allocation of the blocks between 1993 and 2004 and allocation of coal blocks to joint venture companies which included a private player.

Last August, Comptroller and Auditor General had said that 142 coal fields allocated between 2004 and 2009 allowed beneficiaries to make staggering benefits of up to Rs 1.86 lakh crore as mining rights were given at undervalued rates instead of using auction route.